What is acute myeloid leukaemia?

Leukaemia is cancer of the white blood cells – acute leukaemia is when it progresses rapidly and aggressively.

In Gemma’s case it was affecting her myeloid cells. These perform a number of different functions, such as fighting bacterial infections, defending the body against parasites and preventing the spread of tissue damage.

Acute myeloid leukaemia is extremely rare with around 650 people diagnosed with it in the UK each year.

It usually starts slowly before becoming severe very quickly. Symptoms include pale skin, feeling tired and repeat infections over a short space of time.